45881, Rawson, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 45881, Rawson, Ohio is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.82 percent of residents in 45881 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bluffton Hospital with a distance of 7.50 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rawson, Ohio (ZIP Code 45881)

The pursuit of optimal healthcare, particularly when facing the complexities of a lung cancer diagnosis, demands a thorough understanding of accessibility. This is especially true for residents of Rawson, Ohio (ZIP code 45881), where the availability of specialized medical services and the ease of transportation to those services directly impact the quality of life and treatment outcomes. This "Lung Cancer Score" assesses the critical element of healthcare access, focusing on the practical realities of getting to and from appointments, treatments, and follow-up care. The score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, painting a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape for those facing lung cancer in Rawson.

Rawson, a small village nestled in Hancock County, Ohio, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers and specialized pulmonology services are located in larger cities, requiring residents to navigate the transportation network to receive the care they need. This write-up delves into the specifics of that network, providing a critical analysis for individuals considering moving to Rawson or for current residents seeking to understand their options.

**The Road Ahead: Drive Times and Highway Navigation**

For many residents of Rawson, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. The most direct route to larger medical centers involves navigating the state highway system. Findlay, Ohio, approximately 15 miles away, offers several medical facilities, including Blanchard Valley Hospital, which can be reached via US-224 East. The drive time to Findlay typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

For more specialized care, patients may need to travel further afield. Toledo, Ohio, approximately 70 miles away, offers access to the University of Toledo Medical Center and ProMedica Toledo Hospital, both of which have comprehensive cancer centers. The journey to Toledo primarily involves traveling on I-75 North. The drive time to Toledo can be anywhere from an hour to an hour and a half, depending on traffic.

Another option is to travel to Columbus, Ohio, approximately 100 miles away, for access to The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute. This route typically involves taking US-30 East to I-71 South. The drive time to Columbus is typically between an hour and a half and two hours, depending on traffic.

These drive times, while seemingly manageable, can be significantly impacted by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months. Snow and ice can lead to delays and increased travel times, placing an additional burden on patients, especially those undergoing treatment that may leave them fatigued or immunocompromised.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Rawson and the surrounding areas are limited. Hancock Area Transportation (HATS) provides public transit services within Hancock County. However, their routes and schedules are primarily designed to serve local needs, and they do not offer direct routes to the major medical centers in Findlay, Toledo, or Columbus.

HATS does offer demand-response services, meaning that riders can request a ride to a specific destination. However, these services require advance booking and may have limited availability. ADA-compliant vehicles are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The availability of these services can be a lifeline for those who are unable to drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The lack of robust public transportation options presents a significant challenge for individuals in Rawson, particularly those who are unable to drive due to their illness or treatment side effects. This underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions, such as ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Rawson area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some patients, especially when frequent trips to medical appointments are required.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for patients with mobility limitations or other healthcare needs. Several medical transportation providers serve the Rawson area, including First Call Medical Transportation and Care Ride. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, assistance with medical equipment, and trained drivers who can provide support and assistance during the journey.

The cost of medical transportation services can vary depending on the distance traveled and the level of care required. However, many insurance plans cover the cost of medical transportation, making it a more accessible option for some patients. It is crucial for individuals facing a lung cancer diagnosis to investigate their insurance coverage and explore the availability of medical transportation services in their area.

**The Score: A Synthesis of Transportation Realities**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Rawson, Ohio (45881), reflects a mixed bag of accessibility. While the proximity to Findlay offers relatively quick access to basic medical care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options create challenges for those needing specialized cancer care.

The drive times to Toledo and Columbus, while manageable, can be time-consuming and stressful, especially for patients undergoing treatment. The availability of ride-sharing services is inconsistent, and the cost can be prohibitive. Medical transportation services offer a valuable alternative, but their availability and cost vary.

For individuals considering moving to Rawson, this score highlights the importance of carefully evaluating their transportation needs and exploring all available options. For current residents, it underscores the need to proactively plan for transportation to medical appointments and to advocate for improved healthcare access within the community. This includes exploring options for carpooling, volunteer driver programs, and advocating for expanded public transit services. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of Rawson, regardless of their circumstances, have access to the life-saving care they need.